Iran-US tensions have flared up again after Iranian missiles reportedly struck commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, damaging two vessels and raising fresh concerns over the safety of one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
According to an Axios report citing a US official, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards fired at least two missiles at commercial ships travelling through the strategic waterway on Monday. While two vessels were damaged, no casualties were reported.
The attacks have raised questions over a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed less than three weeks ago between Iran and the United States. Under the agreement, Iran had promised to stop targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest incident also came shortly after a Qatar-brokered week-long pause in attacks expired.
US President Donald Trump had earlier mocked the temporary arrangement, saying the US had given Iran “a week off for a funeral because we’re nice.” He was referring to the state funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli strike on February 28 during the conflict.
What happened near Oman?
In a separate incident early Tuesday, a tanker caught fire after being hit by an unidentified projectile while travelling near Limah, Oman, close to the Strait of Hormuz.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO) said the projectile struck the port side of the vessel as it was heading south towards the Gulf of Oman, causing a fire. Authorities confirmed there was no environmental damage, and an investigation is underway. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important?
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes, with a large share of global oil and gas shipments passing through it every day. Any disruption in the region can affect global energy supplies and shipping.
What could happen next?
The Axios report said the US is likely to respond to the latest attacks. Trump also warned that while he preferred reaching a deal with Iran, the US could “knock down their bridges in one hour” if necessary.
First published on: Jul 07, 2026 08:51 AM IST
Get Breaking News First and Latest Updates from India and around the world on News24. Follow News24 on Facebook, Twitter.
End of Article
About the Author
Shivam Verma
Shivam Verma is a Chief-Sub-Editor at News24. A postgraduate diploma holder in Integrated Journalism from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai, Shivam focuses on international affairs, diplomacy, defence, and politics. Beyond the newsroom, he is passionate about football, both playing and watching, and enjoys travelling to explore new places and cuisines.
Read MoreRelated Story
